4.0l SOHC engines and balance shafts

[Deak]

Ok maybe someone can help out. I have been poking around for a replacement engine. I have come across a 4.0l sohc without the balance shaft.(the 4x2 version) But I have been told that the later versions of the engine 99+ don't have the balance shaft and are used in both 4x4 and 4x2 versions. Can anyone explain what the shaft does and if they did away with it what was the reason for it.


TIA

Deak

 

[SWLathrop]

The balance shaft was added to help reduce noise, vibration and harshness. The following 4.0 SOHCs are "BALANCE SHAFT" engines.

1999-2001 4X4 Explorer/Mountaineer
2001-2002 4X4 Sport/Sport Trac
ALL 2002 Explorer/Mountaineer, except engine codes 2G-960-AA and 2G-964-AA.

The following 4.0 SOHCs are "NON-BALANCE SHAFT" engines.

1999-2001 4X2 Explorer/Mountaineer
2001-2002 4X2 Sport/Sport Trac
2002 Explorer/Mountaineer with engine codes 2G-960-AA and 2G-964-AA
ALL 2001-2002 Rangers

Not sure about the 2003 models.

Hope this helps

 

[Deak]

If I understand correctly the balance shaft is more of a comfort thing and really isn't needed. Which helps my decision when trying to pick out a replacement engine.


Deak